Improving Relations: Japan and South Korea Hold First Naval Military Exercise in Nine Years

Japan and South Korea have once again conducted a joint naval exercise for the first time in almost nine years. The search and rescue exercise (SAREX) took place in international waters near Jeju Island, signalling a warming of defence relations between the two nations.

The Japan Maritime Self-Defence Force (MSDF) deployed the destroyer Kongo, equipped with the Aegis system, alongside SH-60K maritime patrol helicopters. South Korea participated with the 4,900-tonne landing ship ROKS Cheon Ja Bong.

The exercise, held on Sunday (7/6), is the first of its kind since December 2017. Japanese Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi described the drill as a milestone for a new era of bilateral defence cooperation.

While the SAREX programme was originally launched in 1999 and held biennially to improve coordination regarding maritime incidents near the Korean Peninsula, it was suspended following a breakdown in relations in 2018. At that time, Japan accused a South Korean warship of directing fire-control radar at a Japanese maritime patrol aircraft, an allegation Seoul denied, instead protesting the low-altitude flight of the Japanese aircraft near its vessel.

Efforts to restore defence ties began earlier this year. During a meeting of defence ministers in January, Japan and South Korea agreed to revive joint exercises. The schedule was subsequently announced during bilateral meetings held on the sidelines of the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore last month.

Observers suggest the resumption of these exercises reflects the increasing need for security cooperation in East Asia amidst various regional challenges. Beyond strengthening military interoperability, the exercise is viewed as a step towards rebuilding trust between two nations that have long been overshadowed by historical disputes and diplomatic tensions.